REMEMBER THIS IS AN ESTIMATE -- YOUR MARE MAY BE EARLY OR LATE.

Notes:

Normal Gestation

 "Normal" foaling dates, typically ranging from 315 to 370 days after cover/breeding date.
With Miniature Horses averaging 325 to 342.

Udder "Bag" Development

During this time period, the Mare's udder begins development to prepare for the production of colostrum.

Teats begin to Fill

During this period of time, the udder begins to let colostrum down into the teats in preparations for foaling.

Pelvis and Vulva Relaxation

During the beginning of this period the muscles in the pelvic area (over and around the mares rump) begin to progressively relax. Nearing the end of the gestation the muscles in the Mares vulva will begin to relax as well, signifying the final round of preparations before parturition/birth.

Foaling Environment

A foaling mare should not be placed in a strange environment or have a stranger act as night attendant immediately prior to parturition. Any sudden changes may delay foaling. Ideally, mares should be placed in the foaling environment 2 to 3 weeks prior to her expected foaling date.

Mares can foal in a variety of locations, depending on the weather and facilities available. Whatever the choice of foaling locations, the environment should be clean, have adequate space, and be reasonably quiet. Mares due to foal in the winter months will require a large (10' X 10' minimum), clean foaling stall. During warm weather, many producers choose to allow their mares to foal in grassy paddocks or pastures. However, this is not recommended when un-attended. Dirt lots should be avoided, if possible.

For mares foaling in a stall, the stall should be freshly bedded with clean, dry hay or good quality, non dusty, shavings.  Straw bedding is not recommended, as many miniatures will eat it and colic.  An 4- to 6- inch-thick bedding of hay will decrease dust, chances of infection, and is easier to clean. Safety to the mare and foal should be kept in mind when selecting a foaling stall. Stalls should be constructed to allow isolation of the mare and safety to the newborn foal. Thorough disinfection of the stall prior to bringing in the mare will help prevent disease. The mare should be allowed ample exercise up to foaling. Stall confinement for an extended period just prior to foaling may predispose the mare to impaction colic and abnormal swelling.

Mares foaling in paddocks or pasture should either be isolated or have sufficient space to separate themselves from any other horses in the pasture. Additionally, the pasture/paddock should be examined for possible hazards to the foal. A shelter should be provided in case of wet or cold weather.

Regardless of the place, the foaling area should be isolated and quiet. Safety of the mare and foal should be kept in mind when deciding where the foaling will occur. The cleanliness of the foaling area cannot be stressed enough. Foaling in contaminated areas can predispose the foal to bacteria invasion and neonatal septicemia via the navel stump.

Premature

Estimated Foaling Dates

This is the estimated date of parturition/birth. Unless otherwise changed, it is calculated at 340 days. This is, however, only an estimate -- and by no means should it be used to determine when your Mare is going to foal. There are many external indications and tests to provide you with an accurate idea of when to expect parturition/birthing.

Mother Natures Mare Foaling Predictor Kit is used to estimate foaling time and is new and improved. This test kit is based on the fact that in most mares, calcium and magnesium concentrations in prepartum mammary secretion rise progressively during the latter portion of gestation to the time of foaling.  continue.  A majority of mares will show a significant rise in calcium and magnesium concentration just prior to parturition.

Miscarriage

Foals are considered premature if born at less than 326 days of "term" (gestation) and usually require immediate veterinary attention. Mares foaling before 310 days are considered to have aborted and normally do not survive. A qualified veterinary doctor should be on hand or contacted immediately if your mare begins to foal during this time.

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